**”My Swing Is Not Good”: Cardinals’ Nolan Arenado Has Candid Admission Amid Struggles**
In a rare moment of vulnerability, St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado opened up about his recent struggles at the plate, admitting that his swing “is not good” as he continues to battle through an uncharacteristically rough patch in the 2024 season. The seven-time Gold Glove winner and perennial All-Star has long been regarded as one of the best all-around players in the game, but his recent struggles with consistency at the plate have raised concerns among fans and analysts alike.
During a candid interview on Wednesday, Arenado didn’t hold back when discussing his difficulties. “I’m not where I want to be, and my swing is not good right now,” he said, his tone reflecting both frustration and self-awareness. “I’m working hard every day, but sometimes it just doesn’t come together the way you want it to. It’s a grind, and I’ve been grinding for a while.”
Arenado’s honesty about his swing issues comes amid a season where his offensive numbers have dipped in comparison to his usual elite standards. Entering the final stretch of the season, Arenado is hitting .240 with 17 home runs and 61 RBIs, a far cry from the numbers he has put up in previous seasons. While his defense remains as stellar as ever—he continues to be a force at third base, earning praise for his defensive prowess—his bat has been a source of concern, especially for a team that relies heavily on his offensive production.
For Arenado, this marks the first significant slump in what has been a remarkable career. Known for his powerful bat and consistency, he has made a name for himself as one of the most dangerous hitters in the National League. However, this season, he has struggled to find the rhythm that has made him a staple in the Cardinals’ lineup.
“I don’t want to make excuses. The game is tough,” Arenado continued. “It’s frustrating, but at the same time, I have to stay patient. I’ve been in slumps before, and I know I’ll get out of it eventually. The important thing is not to lose confidence, even when things are tough.”
The timing of Arenado’s struggles is particularly tough for the Cardinals, as the team is fighting for a playoff spot in the competitive NL Central. His offensive struggles have been especially noticeable in key moments, with Arenado failing to come through in several high-leverage situations. Fans have expressed concern, but there is also a sense of understanding that even the best players go through rough patches.
Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol expressed his full support for Arenado, emphasizing the veteran’s leadership both on and off the field. “Nolan is a professional, and we know he’ll figure it out,” Marmol said. “He’s had an incredible career, and this is just one of those times where it’s not clicking. But we have complete faith in him.”
Arenado’s commitment to improving and his willingness to confront his struggles head-on is a testament to his character. With the postseason in sight, fans are hoping that the All-Star slugger can rediscover his form in time to help the Cardinals make a push for the playoffs. Regardless of his recent difficulties, there is no doubt that Arenado’s resilience and work ethic will be crucial for the team’s success down the stretch.
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